Course overview

This programme explores society from every angle, covering family, social inequalities, crime, and forensic psychology. The degree develops your critical understanding of human behaviour, social organisation and crime, engaging with topics such as criminology theories, sociological imagination, power, control and resistance. You'll be at the forefront of contemporary social debates, including crime, addiction, and violence against women and girls. Teaching combines theory, research methods and guest lectures.

Course requirements

Applicants should hold a minimum of 80 UCAS points from A Levels, Level 3 Diplomas, a combination of Level 3 Certificates, or an Access to HE Diploma. Equivalent international qualifications are also considered on a case-by-case basis. Applicants should also have GCSE English and Maths at grade 4/C or above, or Level 2 Functional Skills in literacy and numeracy. Mature students with relevant life or employment experience will also be considered. Experience working in the public sector is advantageous but not essential. Applicants will be considered for latter stages of the programme (eg. direct entry onto Year 2 or Year 3 of the programme) where they can evidence prior university-level study in this discipline, for example a Certificate/Diploma of Higher Education or a Foundation Degree in a related subject.

What will I do?

Level 4 modules include: Sociological Imagination, Social Problems: Myths and Realities, The Changing Concept of Family, Criminology: Theories and Concepts, Policing Crime and Society, Introduction to Forensic Psychology Level 5 Modules include: Introduction to Social Science Research, Self Identity and Society, Popular Culture Media and Society, Crime Culture and Social Change, Applied Forensic Psychology, Social Inequalities Level 6 Modules include: Dissertation, Criminology & Globalisation, Anthropological Traditions, The Sociology of Power Control and Resistance You will be fully supported by a personal tutor and dissertation supervisor.

What will it give me?

Completion of all three years (or all six years if studying on a part time basis) will give you a BA (Hons) Degree in Sociology & Criminology.

Materials needed

You will need all basic stationery items for studying. Students will also be made aware of any key texts / books which may be advisable to purchase for the programme. If this is the case, you will be notified of these during induction. A laptop computer would be advantageous however this is not essential as the College has dedicated IT facilities for degree students and adults.

What can I do when I finish?

Graduates may enter roles such as Criminal Justice Officer, Police Officer or Police Staff, Probation Assistant, Prison Officer, Youth Worker, Social Researcher, Community Support Practitioner, paid roles within related charities, or Policy Assistant. Further study options include master's degrees in criminology, sociology, social work, law, policing, or education.

What next?

If you would like to apply for this exciting degree programme, then please apply via our website if you already attend Bishop Auckland College. You can also attend our next Higher Education Open Night - please check our website homepage for details of this.